This week my friend Dan Blanchard published his memoir, A FIGHTING CHANCE: A 40-YEAR JOURNEY FROM MY BIRTH UNTIL MY BROTHER'S DEATH, with the Kindle version now available on Amazon.
Dan's book chronicles growing up in an abusive household, with a father who had a penchant for beating his wife and children, especially when he was drunk, which was almost daily. Dan shares specific stories that are etched in his memory from the time he was a very small child until he was 40 years old. I must tell you that at times, this book was not easy to read, especially when Dan remembers some horrible childhood incidents that continue to affect him all these years later. Although difficult to read, Dan stays his own course and becomes a champion wrestler and a great teacher, so the book is also inspiring and uplifting.
I have known Dan for several years, and two of the things I like the most about him are his optimism and his consideration for others. After reading his memoir, I admire those qualities more than ever, because if just can't fathom where he got the courage to sustain himself in the house of horrors where he grew up, and to transform himself into the family man, loving husband and father, and caring teacher that he is today. I also believe that Dan shows a great amount of courage in telling the story of his early life and abuse and allowing others to have more than a peek into his early life. I find his book to be so brutally honest, yet inspiring for the lessons that Dan teaches the reader - lessons of resilience, acceptance, and a work ethic that leads a person to become the best he can be.
I applaud my friend Dan Blanchard for his honesty, integrity, and courage.
"It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are." E. E. Cummings
Note: Dan and I are currently writing a book together, along with another friend, Dan Flores. The subject is Professional Development for teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrators.. We are working on the final draft. I will let you know when it is published
Visit Dede's web page for complete details on her award-winning book, STUDENT TEACHING: THE INSIDE SCOOP FROM A MASTER TEACHER. Many colleges have made the book required reading. Signed copies are available www.dederittman.com Dede is also a national speaker on The Three C's for Classroom success: Confidence, communication, and Creativity; Avoiding Teacher burnout; and many other inspirational topics.
I LOVE writing. And I love writing children's books- my newest passion. Although it will be a ton of work, I am looking forward to selling my books. Since I was a secondary teacher, I know that I have much to learn about elementary students, and I will have to follow my own advice and be my genuine self. However, I also know that I am passionate about helping kids who have to wear glasses, and that GRADY GETS GLASSES sends a positive message. I am willing to work hard and do all the things that also made me a successful teacher for 37
Teacher friends- let me know if you want me to read GRADY GETS GLASSES at your school. I am willing to come in to discuss the creative writing process, why writing is important, and personal fulfillment through writing, along with reading my book. I would appreciate the exposure, and I would make signed copies available for purchase in your classrooms following the reading. Please email me at dederittman@gmail.com The website www.gradygetsglasses.com now has plush Grady bunnies for sale!
Connect with Dede!
Twitter @dederittman
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